Down This Road Designs by Angie I.

Better than .... Cake!

2012-02-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

Hi! It's Megan again with a super yummy recipe. It's kind of like a better than sex cake, but I think it's even better! As a bonus, it is all homemade, while still being very easy to make. It would be a great cake to make for Valentine's Day, which is just around the corner. It's sure to impress any audience!

We will start with my Grandma Meier's No-Mix Chocolate Cake recipe. Yup. From scratch. You can do it! There are no eggs and no mixer involved in the making of the cake.

3 cups flour

2 cups sugar

1/2 cups cocoa

2 tsp baking soda

1tsp salt

1/2 package instant chocolate pudding mix

3/4 cup vegetable oil

1 tsp vanilla

2 tsp vinegar

2 cups warm water

Lightly mix flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, salt and pudding mix. Then add oil, vanilla, vinegar and water. Mix well but do not beat. Pour into a greased 9x13 pan and bake at 350 for 30-40 minutes until done. Cool.

Topping:

chocolate syrup

2 cups heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup sugar

caramel ice cream topping

Poke holes in the top of a cake- I use a butter knife. Drizzle chocolate syrup into the holes. Whip heavy whipping cream and sugar together until stiff, and spread on top of cake. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and caramel topping. Keep refrigerated. You can make this the day of, but I wouldn't make it any further ahead.

Big News for Down This Road Designs

2012-01-20T07:07:00.000-08:00

For the past few months I have been working hard on getting a website put together for my business….Down This Road Designs. With a lot of help from my amazing friends (who I first met online!!). I could not have done this without the help!! I am also so grateful for all of you who have helped make Down This Road Deisgns what it is today. Without your encouragment and support for me and my designs.....I am not sure if I would still be designing today!
Thanks so much for being there for me!

I am very pleased to announce that DownThisRoadDesigns.com is open TODAY!!!

I have a new blog too. Be sure to check out future updates at DownThisRoadDesigns.com/blog/

Sneak Peek

2012-01-19T11:14:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!!!

I have a Sneak Peek for you....this will be releasing tomorrow!!

I also have an announcement for you.....it will be some big news for Down This Road Designs!!! Stay tuned I will announce it tomorrow!!!!

New Releases at ScrapMatters

2012-01-13T07:46:00.000-08:00

I have some things from last months Guest Spot at Ginger Scraps that I am now putting into my ScrapMatters Shop!! You can get them at 20% off this weekend!!
Ginger Sweet

Ginger Sweet Add-on

Road Maps Vol. 3

And Brand New!!! Commercial Use Heart Doodles Vol. 1

January Stack Exchange at ScrapMatters

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

Do you like my kit Snowy Tales?!! ScrapMatters is using it for the Stack Exchange this month!!! So if you participate you will get all the goodies that were created this month as your prize!!! How awesome is that?!!!

If you do now own the kit yet you can pick it up and play along. Snowy Tales is 30% off until the end of the month!!!
Snowy Tales

Manic Monday

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for Manic Monday?!!! Today I have Look For Rainbows - Girl on sale for 50% off.
Look For Rainbows - Girl

Guest Creative Team Call

2012-01-04T13:03:00.000-08:00

Guest CT Call for Down This Road Designs
Do you want to be a guest on my Creative Team? Do you love my designs
and want to work with them and promote them?

REQUIREMENTS:
*One layout or hybrid project per new release
*Be active in my private CT forum
*Post layouts at ScrapMatters and two other galleries of your choice.
*Layouts must be posted on your blog with credits if you have a blog.
*Enable my products 4 times a month
*1 blog or newsletter article a month

COMMITMENTS:
*Guest spots will run from January 15, 2015 to March 15, 2012
*Guests may be offered a permanent spot after the Guest term
EMAIL ME AT
downthisroaddesigns@q.com
Subject: Guest CT Call
by January 15th with the following information:
*Name, Forum usernames, and CT obligations
*Link to your most complete gallery and a link to a layout using my designs
*A little about yourself and tell my why you would like to be part of my team.

Store at ScrapMatters
www.downthisroaddesigns.blogspot.com

January Mix-a-kit

2012-01-01T19:38:00.001-08:00

New January Mix-a-kit Packs

I have some new things in the ScrapMatters store for the January Mix-a-kit!! 20% off this week!

Polar Adventure Elements

Polar Adventure Patterns

Polar Adventure Solids

Here are a few layouts for inspiration using Polar Adventures packs:

Layout by Erika

Layout by Amy

Layout by Hildur

Day 12

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today I have the final gift for you!!! I have created 2 clusters from my kit Cozy Comforts!!
Cozy Comforts

Here are the clusters!!

Download
I have enjoyed sharing some things with you all over the last 12 days!!! I want to thank you all for your support during 2011 and I love sharing my love for scrapbooking with all of you!! I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas!! Remember to capture some of the moments to cherish!! I will see you all in 2012!!! Have a amazing New Year!!

Day 11

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today I have a Subway Art printable for you. With the New Year around the corner....I wanted to decorate my home with some Subway Art. I hope you like it.

The original size is 16x20...you can resize how it fits your needs.

Download

Enjoy!!

Day 10

2011-12-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today I have a little different freebie for you. I created a frame cluster and stacked page with the May Mix-a-kit packs I have at ScrapMatters. This set of Mix-a-kit packs have a modern feel to them.

Modern: Elements

Modern: Patterns

Modern: Solids

Here is what I have for you today!!

Download

Enjoy!!

Day 9

2011-12-20T06:40:00.000-08:00

Today I have another template for you!!! I hope you like it!!

Download

Enjoy!!!!

Manic Monday

2011-12-19T09:32:00.000-08:00

Hi all!!! Today is Manic Monday, although I am having a pretty great day because I am off of work for the next two weeks. Spending time with my kiddos this morning....without anything but fun on the schedule!!! YAY!!
Today I have my CU Shell Doodles on special for Manic Monday at ScrapMatters!!
CU Shell Doodles

You can pick them up today only for $2!!

Day 8

2011-12-19T08:52:00.000-08:00

Day 8 is a set of Clusters made with the kit Ginger Sweet!!!

Ginger Sweet

There are 2 clusters and each have a shadowed version and one without shadows. The shadows are at -28 degrees angle.

Download

Enjoy!!

Day 7 freebie

2011-12-18T10:28:00.000-08:00

I am back again today with Day 7!!

Today I am posting a set of recipe cards made with my kit Ginger Sweet!!!

Download

These would make a fun last minute gift. Edit the recipe cards with your favorite recipes to share and tie a stack together with a ribbon. There are 2 styles included and in 2 sizes 3x5 and 4x6.

Enjoy!!!

Day 6

2011-12-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for Day 6? Today I have a template to share.

Download

Enjoy!!

Day 5

2011-12-16T13:48:00.000-08:00

Day 5 is here!!! Are you trying to get your Christmas cards out? Have you had them printed yet? Maybe these cards will help you along your way. I am sharing with you today 4 4x6 card png's.....just slip your photo in and decorate with your greeting and you are on your way. Out of time? Then save your Christmas card for the beginning of the year and send out that greeting instead.

Here is an example of how I used one.

Here is a preview of all 4 of the cards.

I used Snowfall in December MAK pieces to create these cards.

Download

New Release Dear Santa Collab

2011-12-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

Crystal of Sugar Pie Scraps and I got together and put together a really fun collab!!! I love how it turned out!!! We are releasing it at both GingerScraps and ScrapMatters today!!! You can grab it at 20% off through the weekend!!!

Dear Santa Collab

We are also offering this Word art pack free if you purchase the kit Dec. 16-18.

If you purchase Dec. 16-18 the word art pack will be included in your downloads. After Dec 18th the word art pack will be sold separately in both stores.

Check out some amazing inspiration!!!

Day 4

2011-12-15T15:31:00.000-08:00

I don't know about any of you, but I was in a mad rush last night putting together some last minute gifts for work. Our last day at work is tomorrow....so I had to get them out today!! Here are 2 fun gifts I came up with.

Forgive the photography......the only window with any decent light....and not backdrop.
The first gift is hand soap and the tag reads: Wishing you a holiday season full of peace. joy and hope. The hope is crossed out and soap written underneath.
The second gift is Ande's Mints and the tag reads: Wishing you merri-mint and joy this Christmas.
I have duplicated these tags and put them on full 8.5x11 sheets for easy printing. Cut them out and attach to your gifts and you are set. Great gifts for co workers or neighbors too. I hope these ideas and tags will help you out this holiday season.
Download

Day 3

2011-12-14T21:00:00.000-08:00

Time for Day 3 of my 12 Days of Christmas!!

Today the download is an alpha.

Download

Enjoy!!!

Sneak Peek for 12/16

2011-12-13T20:23:00.000-08:00

I have a sneak peek for you!!!! This kit will be hitting stores on

Dec. 16th.

Check back on Friday to see the full reveal!!

Day 2 of 12 days of Christmas from Down This Road Designs

2011-12-13T18:05:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for Day 2?

Today you are going to receive a pack of extras. It contains 2 clusters created with my kit Christmas Past.

Here are is a look at the items for Day 2

Download

And remember if you become a new subscriber to my newsletter this month you will receive this alpha free.

Enjoy and we will see you again tomorrow!!

12 Days of Christmas

2011-12-12T21:01:00.000-08:00

I wanted to wish you all a wonderful Holiday season!!!! So, I decided to do a Down This Road Designs 12 days of Christmas. I will be posting various freebies and coupons on my blog over the next 12 days!!

The 12th Day of Christmas you get a $3 off coupon good at my GingerScraps Store!!! I only have a few items in the store now....but I will be getting some more goodies in that store this weekend. You can use this coupon throughout the entire month of December!!!

Coupon code: DTRD_12days$3off expires Dec. 31, 2011 Good only at GingerScraps

Manic Monday 12/12/11

2011-12-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!!! Manic Monday again!!! You can get First Flight for 50% off today only at ScrapMatters!!
First Flight

Revamped Snowy Tales

2011-12-09T07:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday everyone!!!! We have had a few days of bitter cold, but no snow. I am sure we will be getting some....it is December after all. On to today's release.
Snowy Tales

You can pick this kit up this weekend at 20% off.
*This kit was sold previously at another store and is a revamped version.

Amy, one of my Creative Team Members, created this cluster freebie for you!!! So cute...right?!

Download

Check out how my Creative Team and the ScrapMatters Creative Team used this kit.

Manic Monday!!!

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today I have my Cozy Comforts kit available for Manic Monday at ScrapMatters!!! That means it is 50% off today only.
Cozy Comforts

Grab Bag Reveal!!

2011-12-04T13:14:00.001-08:00

I have broken open my Black Friday Grab Bag to reveal what was inside. Wild Thing!!!, Extras, Road Maps Vol. 4 and On Fire Alpha! All at 25% off this weekend!!

Wild Thing

Wild Thing Extras

Road Maps Vol. 4

On Fire Alpha

Ginger Sweet New Release

2011-12-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

I am back to reveal the kit I am releasing at GingerScraps today!!!
GingerSweet

Ginger Sweet Add-on

Road Maps Vol. 3

I am also offering them all in a bundle for greater savings!!

Ginger Sweet Bundle

Check out the amazing inspiration from my Creative Team and the GingerGirls:

Here is a little freebie to coordinate with Ginger Sweet:

Download here

Enjoy!!

December Daily Download at ScrapMatters

2011-12-02T05:45:00.001-08:00

Lots of fun plans in store at ScrapMatters!!! Be sure to check it all out!!! You don't want to miss the daily download either!!

ScrapMatters December Mix-a-kit

2011-12-01T11:07:00.000-08:00

Another month gone by....can you believe it?!! I am excited about this months Mix-a-kit!!! I love the colors and loved creating these items!!! Here is what I have this month
Snowfall in December Elements

Snowfall in December Patterns

Snowfall in December Solids

These items are on sale this week at 20% off so be sure to pick them up while they are discounted.

Here are some examples of how my Creative Team and the ScrapMatters Creative team has used these items:

December fun!!

2011-12-01T07:27:00.000-08:00

You may have noticed that I am a guest designer at GingerScraps for the month of December!!! I am really excited about this site. The community there is super nice and welcoming!!! I am having a ball and it is only the 1st of December!!
At GingerScraps they have a monthly collection of goodies that they call the Buffet!!
The GingerScraps Buffet is an All You Can Eat .... or rather Scrap, lol, Buffet. Each month the amazing GingerBread Ladies will be given a color palette and theme, And they will create delicious goodies for you. Then you can mix and match, 'till your hearts content! Think of it like a way to totally customize a Mega Collab, "eat" as little or as much as you would like, after all..... you can indulge all day long and it never counts towards your calories for the day. hehe
Every piece in the Buffet is only $2.00 each!! Yep- you heard me, you can get every delectable piece of this Mix and Match Mega Buffetfor only $2.00 each!
So hurry, go fill up your "plate" and feel free to come back for seconds!

Guess what for the first week you can get these items for only $1!!!

For December the theme is Who-Village!!! Fun right?! Check out the pieces I created for the buffet.
Who-Village Alpha

Who-Village Mini kit

You can find the rest of the buffet items HERE.
Here are some layouts created by the GingerGirls:
Layout by Carolyn:

Layout by Scrappinbella:

Sneak Peek and giveaway

2011-11-30T12:18:00.001-08:00

I have been busy designing some things for December. I am excited to show you a sneak peek.
First is the Peak for the ScrapMatters Mix-a-kit!!! I love the colors for this month!!!

Yummy right?!!! Stay tuned tomorrow for the full reveal of the items I have for the Mix-a-kit.

I will also be a guest designer at a digi shop for December and I am really excited about it. It is the first time I have had this opportunity and I love it.....so fun!! I am not going to tell you where just yet.....I have a kit and bundle I will be releasing on Dec 2. Here is a sneak peek.

I am giving you a chance to win this bundle for free!!! All you have to do is post below where you think I will be a guest for in December. You have until 12:00 pm MST today Nov 30 to post your guess!! I will be back tomorrow with the announcement and let you know who wins the bundle. Good Luck!!!

Cyber Monday SALE!!!

2011-11-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

ScrapMatters is having a Cyber Monday sale!!!! I have my entire store on sale today 30% off!!! Excluding Grab Bags. Be sure to shop while the prices are low. You also may want to subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on twitter and facebook. I will have extra goodies for newsletter subscribers this week!!! And I will be posting coupons for extra savings on twitter and facebook. Happy Shopping!!

New Release and Black Friday Sale!!!

2011-11-25T05:50:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!!! It is a great time of year to reflect on the things we are greatful for!

I have a new release today!!! I decided to put together a Grab Bag this Week and it will only be available at a discounted price for a limited time. So, be sure to pick it up before I break it apart and sell the items separately.
Black Friday 2011 PU Grab Bag

This Grab Bag contains 4 items....A full kit, a template pack, an alpha, and a cluster pack. You can pick it up this weekend for $4!!!

Here is another peek at what is available in the Grab Bag in the way of Creative Team layouts:

To Celebrate Black Friday ScrapMatters is having a sale. All items are 30% off Friday-Sunday. Be sure to take advantage of the great prices. Monday my store will be 30% off also!!

Manic Monday

2011-11-21T10:26:00.000-08:00

Manic Monday is here. What does that mean? It means you get 50% off a selected kit. Today that kit is Best Wishes!!
Best Wishes

DSD is here!!!!

2011-11-04T06:46:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!! I have a new Grab Bag in my store at ScrapMatters today just in time for DSD!!! This Grab Bag has 4 New Products!! A full kit, a template pack, and 2 Alphas!! Grab it at a really great price just for DSD!!! $5.00!!!!
DSD 2011 PU Grab Bag

Check out some great inspiration from My CT and The ScrapMatters CT!!!

Enjoy your DSD and celebrate by scrapping some memories!!!

DSD is fast approaching!!

2011-11-03T11:56:00.000-07:00

DSD is coming are you ready to Celebrate with ScrapMatters?!!!!

You can find out more about all the fun events going on at ScrapMatters HERE.

I have a sneak peek for you of what I have ready for DSD!!!!

November Mix-a-kit

2011-11-01T06:34:00.000-07:00

Mix-a-kit....yep another month gone by. So, lets celebrate with a new edition of the ScrapMatters Mix-a-kit. This month I chose a thankful theme. I hope you like it.
Truly Blessed patterns

Truly Blessed solids

Truly Blessed Elements

Here are some layouts created by my Creative Team and the SM Team:

New Release Fall Title Starters

2011-10-28T07:39:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!! Happy Friday to you!! I have a new release this week!! It is a set of Fall Title Starters. These are layered files that are designed to help you build a fabulous title. All you need to do is pick you papers and elements, build and clip your items to the already designed titles.
Fall Title Starters

Here are a few examples of how they have been used.
Layout by Crystal:

Layout by me:

Manic Monday

2011-10-24T07:20:00.000-07:00

Monday again!!! Christmas Past is the kit I chose for this Manic Monday!! You can pick it up today only at 50% off!!!
Christmas Past

Fall Festival

2011-10-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

The air is crisper, the leaves are changing colors, fall is in the air!!! I have a new kit today called Fall Festival!!!

Check out the inspiration from my Creative Team and the ScrapMatters Creative Team!

Sneak Peek and Giveaway

2011-10-18T16:56:00.000-07:00

I have a fun new kit that will be releasing Friday!!! I am loving the colors in this kit!!! So, fun!!! Here is a peek.

If you would like a chance to win this kit, post a comment below and you will be entered in a random drawing. I will be back Friday to announce the winner.

Manic Monday

2011-10-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

It is Manic Monday again!!! I have Summer Skies on sale today only at 50% off!!! Grab it while it is at a great discount!!

Summer Skies

Freebie!

2011-10-11T11:48:00.000-07:00

Hello Digi Friends, Thanks for stopping by.

I'm amy! one of Angie's CT girls...and I'm here to bring you a Freebie and another peek at Terrified by Down this Road Designs.

I personally love Fall and Halloween Time! Some of my Favorite colors highlight the season! Just look at this kit. Purples and funky greens with a lil bling..seriously how can you go wrong with that?! I LUV it!

Terrified Elements

Terrified Patterns

Terrified Solids

and the Freebie I created with Terrified is a lil Quick Page starter.
heehe, oppsie I see a typo in that preview ;)

I finished the page with some matching elements from the Kit, You can do the same, finish it up with your style and feel free to share your page with us. We'd LOVE to see how you finished the page. Have fun and enjoy!

DOWN LOAD FREEBIE HERE!

Thanks again for stopping by and as always Happy Scrappin to ya~

amy!

Octopus Fun!

2011-10-04T08:05:00.000-07:00

Hello all, it's Megan again. I'm here to share a few fun activities that highlight the octopus.

We started off by learning about the octopus, where it lives (the ocean), how many legs/tentacles it has (eight), what color they are (they can change their color to match their surrounding), and what they like to eat (crabs, mollusks and crayfish). These facts were more than enough for my 3 year old, but more can be found on the internet or in a library book for older children.

Then we made a craft, our very own pet octopus! We used an empty toilet paper tube, and Vaughn painted it with his poster paints.

When it dried, I used scissors to give it eight legs.

Then we pasted eyes made out of scrap paper on it, and gave it some dots.
Here's our finished project!

For lunch, we had macaroni and cheese with an octopus perched on top. The macaroni and cheese can be whatever you want to use- I cheated and used a box mix. You could also use spaghetti. For the octopi we used hot dogs. Before the hot dogs were cooked, I cut the hot dog into quarters about 3/4 of the way up, then split the quarters in half to make eight legs.

Then we threw the hot dogs in with the macaroni while it was cooking, and the legs all curled up so they looked like octopus tentacles.

Finally, we perched the octopus on a bed of macaroni and cheese.

Hope you can use these fun activities in your own household!

October Mix-a-kit

2011-10-01T08:18:00.000-07:00

The beginning of a new month once again. I really do love October....it is one of my favorite months of the year. This months Mix-a-kit is spooky just in time for Halloween.

Check out what I have for you this month! Here is Terrified!!

Terrified Elements

Terrified Pattern Papers

Terrified Solid Papers

Gallery Spotlight

2011-09-27T05:56:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone! I'm Crystal, one of Angie's CT members. I'm here to share some awesome LO's & hybrids with you.

Do you want to see your layouts or hybrid project featured here? All you have to do is upload your layouts/projects using products by Down This Road Designs to the Down This Road Designs Gallery.

Manic Monday Road Maps Vol. 1

2011-09-26T07:03:00.000-07:00

It is Monday again!!!! Ready for Manic Monday??? Today I have my Road Maps Vol. 1 on special for Manic Monday. You can get this template pack today only for 50% off!!!!
Road Maps Vol. 1

Manic Monday Simple Comforts

2011-09-12T08:37:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!! Happy Monday!!! Today is Manic Monday at ScrapMatters and this means you can get my kit Simple Comforts at 50% off today only.
Simple Comforts

Brown Eyed Girl Collab at ScrapMatters

2011-09-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to put together a beautiful kit with Stolen Moments, Sugary Fancy, Plum Dumpling Designs, and Happy Scrap Girl. It was really fun to work together with these amazing designers!!! We came up with a really fun and gorgeous kit and we decided to call it Brown Eyed Girl!!!
Brown Eyed Girl

You can find it at ScrapMatters and on sale 20% off the 9th-15th!!!
Check out these amazing layouts created by the ScrapMatters Creative team!!!
Layout by: Scrappurple (Heidi)

Layout by: Navaja77 (Ophelia)

Layout by: iscrap

Layout by: Jennamy82 (Jenn of True Blue Studio)

Layout by: Leandi (Isabel)

Happy "Fight Procrastination Day!"

2011-09-06T09:53:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! This is Natalee, and I get to be your "blogger" today!

Did you know that today is national "Fight Procrastination Day"? I had no idea! I happened to run across a web site that had unusual holidays listed, and I was thrilled to see that my blogging day was also a national holiday! :)

I decided that in honor of Fight Procrastination Day, I would try to do something that I have been procrastinating for some time. Sadly the list of things I have procrastinated to do is a very LONG list, but I managed to narrow it down to a few things.

The biggest thing I have been putting off is my Spring Cleaning. Yes I realize I should now be starting my FALL cleaning, but I was half way through Spring Cleaning when I ran out of steam, so I figure I better finish before I start with Fall...right? :)

One of the biggest things I end up tackling SEVERAL times a year is organizing things! Drawers, Cupboards, Closets, the list goes on and on. So I tackled my junk drawer first. I know you all have a drawer like this too. The drawer that gets EVERYTHING shoved into it! Maybe if we changed the NAME of the drawer we wouldn't end up throwing everything in it? I swear I find things in my junk drawer that I didn't even know we owned! Toys, money, (I consider this my tip for organizing it yet again) pens, pencils, keys of which I have no clue to what they open, papers, candy, ugh the list goes on and on! I end up just throwing most of it away because after all, it was shoved in the junk drawer, so it obviously wasn't worth anything to anyone.

I got so excited about getting the motivation to CLEAN it, that I forgot to take a "before" picture. That may be for the best anyway since I'm not exactly "proud" of that drawer. I did however get an after picture:

Trust me...it looks SO much better! Now the challenge is to see how long it stays this way! Any bets? I'm guessing MAYBE a week *sigh*

Next I tackled under my bathroom sink, and also the bathroom drawers. These are always a mess too. Apparently someone mistook a few of those drawers as junk drawers too. Again I guess I was just too busy to take before pictures... :(

Now my NEXT project has not been completed yet, because well.... I'm afraid of it! It's my pantry! Oh how I hate this "room" in my house! This is another place that I have organized over and over again, but it never seems to stay that way! This project I DO have a before picture of, obviously because it's not done yet!

HUGE mess huh? Now you can probably imagine what my junk drawer and bathroom cabinets looked like! Yikes!

I happened to run across this picture of a pantry on Pintrest:

I am IN LOVE with this pantry! I love how simple everything is, and how easy it all is to find! So my plan is to eventually get my pantry to look like this, in one way or another. It will most likely not look THIS good, but I'm gonna try. I am headed to the dollar store to see if I can find some cheap containers to put things like pasta in. I also am going to break out my trusty Silhouette and do some vinyl lettering/labeling. It will most likely be a project that will take some time, but I am getting excited to have an organized and NICE pantry. Hopefully it will stay that way and I wont have to be organizing it again in a few months!

So what have YOU been procrastinating? Cleaning, Organizing, SCRAPPING??? Do you have any great ideas for the rest of us to stop procrastinating that same thing too? Hopefully you TOO will celebrate this "holiday" and get something marked off YOUR to do list! Good luck! I would LOVE to hear about your projects and see any pictures you would like to share!

September Mix-a-kit

2011-09-01T12:03:00.000-07:00

Already the 1st of another new month. Time flies!!!

Here is my September Mix-a-kit!!!

Hopes & Dreams!!! I created this kit with my daughter in mind. She is coming to the age of a pre teen and in her mind blue is the new pink!!! She loves blue!!! So these colors just brought her to mind. All of the stars, florals, and glitter also remind me of her.

Hopes & Dreams elements

Hopes & Dreams Solids

Hopes & Dreams Patterns

You can pick these items up this week at 20% off!!! Be sure to check out the other Mix-a-kit items at ScrapMatters. Tons of fab stuff that color coordinate!!!

Manic Monday!!

2011-08-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

It is Manic Monday at ScrapMatters!!! Today you can find My Sidewalk Art on sale today only for 50% off!!!!! Be sure to take advantage of this promotion!!! It is for TODAY only!!
My Sidewalk Art

Look for Rainbows new in my ScrapMatters Shop

2011-08-28T12:30:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!! Happy Friday!!!

I have a few revamped kits in my ScrapMatters shop today!! Look For Rainbows - boy and girl are baptism kits!!! They are great for everyday scrapping too!!

Look For Rainbows - Boy

Look For Rainbows - Girl

I also have a set of text paths in my shop today!!

Along the Path Vol.1

These items are 20% off through the weekend!!

Back to school and Sneak Peek

2011-08-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

What a whirl wind the last few weeks have been for me and my family!! Football for my son started about 4 weeks ago and we have been running around ever since. It is fun, but also quite a big time commitment. This is how I have been spending almost all of my evenings lately!!

And to top that School for my kids started Monday. Busy, but a nice busy. I love a schedule!!! I am also back to work as I work as an Aide at the local elementary school. Fun to be back to work with the kids!!!

I have 2 kits that I am adding to my ScrapMatters Shop on Friday. Here is a sneak Peek!!

I am going to give one of each of these kits away!! All you need to do is post a comment here on my blog telling me what back to school tradition you do with your kids!!! I will be back Friday Night to post the winners!!

Back To School

2011-08-23T19:06:00.000-07:00

Ramona here, one of Angie's CT's and here to share with you some digital scrapping fun!

Anyone else in the middle of back to school fun? I have six kids, but only four of them are headed back to school! My oldest started high school today (which I am still in denial about!) and another child started Jr. High today. My oldest daughter just started the fifth grade and my son Sam who is on the spectrum would be in first grade if he were in a traditional school. He actually goes to an amazing private school where they are not divided by grades, but rather by their needs. He went last year, as well, and it has been life changing for our little family!

Here is a layout that I scrapped about his last day of Kindergarten. The picture shows him with the other 7 boys from his class, his teacher and several of the aides. There are a couple of extra kids in the photo who belong to the aides and were there for the party! I love every person in this photo! His teacher was amazing. His aides were amazing, especially Vama (whose lap he is sitting on) who was a favorite of all the kids! And each of his classmates are amazing kids with unique challenges, but will warm your heart in an instant!

I scrapped the layout with Angie's part of the Mix a kit, School Days, and I just love it! It can be found, exclusively at ScrapMatters!

For the coming school year, I volunteered to make homemade cards for all the teachers and aids. It isn't a big school (only about 35 students total), but I wanted them to have a little more of a personal touch! I want them to feel how much all of us parents love them!

And because I love digital and think that digital makes everything in life easier! I created these cards all on the computer and printed and cut! It was so easy and the best thing about it, is that I can reprint as many as I need! I can use them for my other kids' teachers, etc. Digital cards are so fun and easy!

I made these cards at 4.25 x 5.5. You'll want to double the width so you can fold it and have your background paper on the back as well. When this card is printed, cut and folded, it will fit in any invitation size envelope. You can use a template or just be creative on your own. A good use of shadows will help the papers and elements look like they are more than digitally created! I have made cards by printing the different pieces, cutting them and adding them, but I'll be honest-I kind of prefer this way! Not only is it lots easier but they lay flat and look sharper. Either way is good though and much easier than starting from scratch with a piece of cardstock and stickers!

Who wants donut cake?

2011-08-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

It's Megan posting today. I'm one of Angie's CT, and we are going to be invading her blog every once in a while. I will be sharing some recipes and highlight some of Angie's work.

Today's post really isn't a recipe, but it is a really fun idea! I'm going to show you how I made a really simple centerpiece out of donuts, which can be used for just about anything. Including a birthday cake. Actually, I can't take the credit, because my then 2 year old suggested the idea. He saw me stack some donuts on a plate, and thought it was a "donut cake". This was in March, and ever since, he's said he wants a donut cake for his 3rd birthday.

First Step: Order desired quantity of donuts. You don't have to use them all for the "cake", I just ordered enough so all the guests at the party could have at least one. I called ahead because my son had a special request (cake donuts with chocolate frosting and colored sprinkles), and I wanted to make sure there would be enough for the special occasion. My grandparents picked them up for me on their way to the party. I pre-paid to make it even easier.

Second Step: Stack donuts on plate or platter. We used a pyramid shape. You can use whatever shape or size you want depending on the purpose of the "cake". Remember you don't have to use all of the donuts if you don't want. They can be served separately.

Third Step: Decorate. We used some big star sprinkles to add some fun. We stuck the "3" candle on top, and placed 3 smaller candles around the "3" candle. I kept it simple.

Fourth Step: Enjoy! Poor Vaughn just couldn't wait to dig in. He grabbed one from the stash and gobbled it up. It was his birthday after all!

Here's the finished product:

Another fun way to top off a birthday party is to send personalized thank-you cards. Angie's kit "Blast Off" worked perfectly for this one. Now if I could just find time to send them...

Your Turn! I'd love to hear about all the ways you make birthdays special and personalized. It's so fun to see what ideas everyone else comes up with. Comment Away!

Manic Monday!!

2011-08-15T01:00:00.001-07:00

Today is Manic Monday at ScrapMatters!! That is actually good new for you!!! How is it good? I have one of my kits listed as 50% off due to it being Manic Monday. You can pick up Blast Off today for only $2.25!!! *Manic Monday sales go into the shop early Monday morning and will "disappear" around midnight! HURRY! What are you waiting for!?! *

Blast Off

First Flight and Simple Metal Alpha New in my shop

2011-08-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

I am back to give you the full reveal of my new kit. This kit was inspired by Creative Team Member Natalee. She had a memory of her sons first flight that she wanted to scrap and asked if I could create a kit around that them. I also had a need for a first flight themed kit. My daughter did a famous persons report last spring for school and chose Amelia Earhart to do the report on. She even had to dress up as her famous person. She looked adorable and did a fabulous job on her report. I really wanted to scrap that for her and now I have the perfect kit to do just that.

Here is my layout that I created with the kit and I love how it turned out.

So on to the reveal.
First Flight

I also have this Simple Metal Alpha in my shop today.

I created this add on to the kit to give as a freebie. I hope you enjoy it.

Check out the great layouts that my Creative Team created with these products.

Sneak Peek and a giveaway CLOSED

2011-08-10T01:00:00.000-07:00

I have a fun new kit that will be released on Friday!! Bright colors and a really fun theme too. Here is a little sneak peek.

I am also going to give one lucky poster a free copy of this kit. All you have to do is post a comment here letting me know what theme kit you are looking for or needing in your scrapping stash. I will be back Friday night to announce the winner who will be selected randomly. So....let's hear it!!!

ScrapMatters Birthday Bash Blog Train

2011-08-06T08:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to ScrapMatters!!! To Celebrate we are having a blog train and offering you lots of freebies along the way made from Garden Party by the ScrapMatters Design Team. Lots of yummy goodness.

Here is your freebie:

You can download it HERE.

Your next stop is: Tanya: http://crossbonecuts.blogspot.com/

Just in case you get derailed here is the ScrapMatters Blog with all the information. http://scrapmatters.com/wordpress/

There's a BONUS! While riding the ScrapMatters 4th Birthday Blog Train, take a moment to check your downloads for a BONUS photo puzzle piece. There are 10 pieces total and when you find all 10, you can complete the puzzle, upload it to your favorite photo hosting site and send a link via PM to Kat through the ScrapMatters forum. All completed photo puzzles must be received by August 8th.

ScrapMatters is turning 4!!

2011-08-02T16:54:00.000-07:00

There will be a big celebration as ScrapMatters comes upon it's 4th year!!! Be sure to join in all the fun!!

There will be lots of Chats and Speed Scraps too. One is hosted on Friday by little ole me. So come join me....you never know what I have up my sleeve. ;)

School Days

2011-08-01T07:28:00.000-07:00

The August Mix-a-kit is at ScrapMatters!!! I created a School Days Collection!!

This collection along with all the other ScrapMatters Design Team Mix-a-kit items will be on sale this week at 20% off. You can find School Days HERE.

Here are some pages that my Creative Team made with this collection.

Sneak Peek of my August Mix-a-kit collection!!

2011-07-31T18:22:00.000-07:00

Wow July just flew by!!! I thought I would give you all a little tease of what I have lined up for the Mix-a-Kit collection for August at ScrapMatters!!!

Stay tuned tomorrow for a full reveal of everything I have for Mix-a-Kit!!!

My Memories Suite Software Giveaway!! Closed

2011-07-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

I received an email from My Memories Suite Software asking me to try their scrapbook software program (My Memories Suite) for free in exchange, I would review the software and offer a free copy to a reader of my blog in the form of a giveaway.

Here is a short video overview of some great features of this software.

Downloading and installing the program went very smoothly. I liked the general set up and organization of the program. Everything has a place and very easy to find. Adding items to a page was very simple. In general I found the program fairly easy to use.

I did find the ability to move the order or layers in which elements, papers, and things on my page a little time consuming. I also found the shadows a bit tricky. I did not go through all of the tutorials on the My Memories Suite blog, I only had time for a few, but I found the ones I did view very informative and helpful.

I also went through the kits and products for sale to use with this program and there was a really great selection of wonderful designs and designers too. They have products such as photo only templates, quickpages, decorated templates (with this product the template is decorated with a product and the pieces are moveable and reusable too) and of course complete digital kits.

Here are some of the fun features of this software:
Printing straight from the program to Persnickety Prints
Easy to use
Add music for a slideshow project or record your voice to make your layouts interactive
Spell Checker
Affordable
Great pre-made template options
Great customer service
Lots of tutorials available
Online photobook creator
Great sharing options through social media

The possibilities are endless!!!

Here is the layout I created with this program. I used one of my kits from my design collection.

Pretty impressive right!??

Here is how you can win your copy of My Memories Software totally free!
First I want you to go to http://www.mymemories.com/ and read a little more about the features of the program then post here which feature you are most excited about. If you would like to get yourself some extra entries to the giveaway?
Follow the My Memories Blog,
Twitter
and Facebook Page
like my Facebook Page.

Make sure you leave a comment for each action letting me know that you have become a fan of or followed them, be sure to leave your name also. By doing this you will be put into the giveaway once for each time you post on my blog. Ready Go!!!

The Giveaway deadline will be Wednesday August 3rd 12pm MST. I will do a random drawing on Thursday and will announce the winner on my blog.

Best Wishes new in my shop along with some CU and a freebie

2011-07-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

A new addition to my ScrapMatters shop today and you can pick it up at 20% off through the weekend. You can find it in my shop HERE. This kit is a revamped version of Best Wishes that was sold at another store.

I love the rich colors in this kit and the heritage feel that is has. This kit is great for those heritage layouts and any everyday moments too.

Check out the amazing inspiration that the ScrapMatters Creative team and my Creative Team (Road Crew) whipped up.

I also have some new Commercial Use Items in my shop today too.
CU Shell Doodles are perfect for those tropical/beach kits and elements. These doodles are 20% off through the weekend and you can find them HERE.

I also have a freebie sample for you in my shop. CU Balloon Doodle Freebie can be found HERE.

Sneak Peek and a giveaway Closed

2011-07-27T05:19:00.000-07:00

I am adding a new kit to my ScrapMatters shop Friday. Here is a little peek at what is in store.

If you would like a chance to get this kit for free post a comment and I will be back Saturday morning to pick one random winner.

Last Chance for Christmas in July and CT layouts

2011-07-21T16:35:00.000-07:00

Don't forget today is the last day to take advantage of the Christmas in July sale at ScrapMatters!! You can pick up my 2 newest kits and 2 newest alphas at 30% off !!!

You can find them all in my shop HERE.

I have some amazing layouts to share!! My Creative Team did some fabulous work with these items!!!

Everyday Magic Challenge this month

2011-07-17T20:35:00.000-07:00

I am hosting one of the Everyday Magic Challenges this month at ScrapMatters. You can still participate in the challenge until the end of the month. Be sure to check it out here.

Here is the layout I created for this challenge.

Credits

Christmas in July and Freebies

2011-07-15T08:19:00.000-07:00

Christmas in July is in full swing!!

Some new stuff in my shop at ScrapMatters today.
Christmas Past is a revamped version of the one I previously sold in my old store.
Christmas Past

Also this Glitter Alpha to match.
Christmas Past Glitter Alpha

An Addon Freebie for you!!
Christmas Past Addon

Also new in my shop at ScrapMatters today Cozy Comforts.
This kit is a revamped version of the one I previously sold in my old store.
Cozy Comforts

And this alpha is a fun one for winter layouts too.
Snowflake Alpha

An Addon Freebie for Cozy Comforts too!
Cozy Comforts Addon

All of these new items to the store are part of the Christmas in July Sale going on today through the 21st. 30% off!!

Be sure to check out the Digiscrap Addicts Enabler this month. There is a little something from me in there. So if you do not subscribe you may want to. :)

You could enter for a chance to win this months Fix too. Be sure to mention me when you enter for a chance to win.;)
http://digiscrapaddicts.com/forum/showthread.php?t=23085

Lots of great things in there!

Sneak Peek 7/15 release and a chance to win!!

2011-07-14T14:00:00.000-07:00

I am releasing 4 items tomorrow that will be part of the Christmas in July sale at ScrapMatters!!
Here is a little sneak peek of what will be put into the shop.

I will be giving away one each of these 4 items to 4 random posts. So to be entered into the giveaway just post a comment below. Good luck!!

Chirstmas in July at ScrapMatters

2011-07-13T17:50:00.001-07:00

Don't miss out on Christmas in July at ScrapMatters!!! It all starts July 15th so stay tuned for some great stuff.

4th of July Hybrid Craft

2011-07-03T21:58:00.000-07:00

I am loving hybrid right now!!! Lot's of fun things you can create!! I wanted to share a hybrid project I created for the 4th of July!!

a close up view:

To create these accordion circles print off some digital papers on 8.5x11 size paper (I used my home printer)
1. Click on the 12x12 size digital image and drag it over onto a blank 8.5x11 document in photoshop.
2. Then print out the paper.
3. Cut strips of 3x11 inches, 1.5x11, and 1x11 sized strips from the paper. Most likely you will need 2 of each size strip to make one accordion flower.

4. Use a scoring tool to score every 1/2 inch or quarter inch along the strip.

7. Fold along the score marks to create the accordion.

8. You will need to make sure that the mountain of one accordion piece and the valley of the other match up so that you have a place to glue. You might have to cut off one accordion piece to make it work right.

9. Now there is one longer accordion strip.

10. Again make sure the opposite ends of the long accordion strip have a mountain/valley meeting point and glue the ends together to form a circle.

11. After the glue dries...you will fold the accordion in toward the center so that it flattens out and a circle is formed.

12. You will need a circle to attach to the center of the accordion. Glue the back of the decorated circle and place it onto the center of the accordion. You will need to hold this for a few minutes until the glue dries a little.

13. Cut a small circle (I could only find my flower punch so that is what I used) to place on the back for some extra hold. I was attaching my accordions to a wreath and needed something to anchor them down so I placed a piece of fishing line in the glue before placing the back piece onto the accordion.

14. For a little extra sparkle and durability I used some spray glitter and Krylon Matte Finish on my accordions. I used my inkjet printer to print my accordions out so, the chances of them bleeding or smearing was likely with it being on my front door. The Krylon Matte Finish sets the ink so that water will not damage the look.

July Mix-a-kit at ScrapMatters

2011-07-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Another new month is here. I can't believe it!!! Summer is in full swing and the colors for the July Mix-a-kit fit right in. So fun!!!

Here are the pieces I have for the July Mix-a-kit:

http://shop.scrapmatters.com/product.php?productid=9321&cat=10

Here are a few layouts that my Creative Team came up with.

Be sure to check out all the Mix-a-kit items in the ScrapMatters Store. They are all so fun!!!

Blog make over

2011-06-27T14:49:00.000-07:00

I love my new blog make over. Amber of Stolen Moments did it and I love it!!! To celebrate I am offering a coupon to my store. 50% off a $5.00 purchase or more!!! This coupon will be available until July 1st so grab it and use it while you can!!! The coupon code is: 50%off$5DTRD. Enjoy!!

Summer Skies and Brass Alpha new at ScrapMatters

2011-06-24T07:48:00.000-07:00

I have a few items that are new in the store at ScrapMatters today. I love summer!!! It is my favorite season and I love to do tons of stuff with my family and make memories in the summertime. Nothings says summer more than warm sunshine and clear blue skies with fluffy clouds.

Summer Skies Kit

You can find Summer Skies HERE at 20% off through the weekend.

To go along with the summer theme I created some word art too.

Summer Skies Word Art

You can find the Word Art pack HERE and it is also 20% off. Be sure to check out the buy together offer that I have going on these 2 items. You can save an additional 10% off when you get them together.

I also have this fun Alpha in the store today.

Brass Alpha

You can find Brass Alpha HERE. It is also 20% off this weekend.

Check out the amazing layouts my creative team and the ScrapMatters Creative Team created with these items.

And of course it would not be me if I did not add in a typo of some kind. Right? The last layout on the left is actually by Michelle. Thanks ladies for all of your hard work on this kit. The layouts are just amazing!!!

June Mix-a-kit at ScrapMatters

2011-06-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

A new month is upon us and that means a new Mix-a-kit for June!!! I just love the colors for this months packs and the design team did not disappoint with all the amazing parts that were created!!! Here is the Oceanside packs that I created for this months Mix-a-kit. The images are linked to the store.

Check out these layout my Creative Team put together with Oceanside packs.

The SM CT put together some amazing layouts using lots of the Mix-a-kit packs too.
Layout by Amy

Layout by Karen

Layout by LeAnn

iNSD ScrapMatters Blog Train

2011-05-07T09:42:00.000-07:00

ScrapMatters has put together a beautiful collab for iNSD!!! I love this vintage kit--it is really beautiful and reminds me of my Grandma. She sends me cards on my Birthday that she has collected through the years and I just love them.

The ScrapMatters team has prepared some amazing freebies using the Timeless Collab and is offering them to you through a blog train. Here is the piece that I created for you:

**link expired**

I was the last stop but, if you missed any stops along the way be sure to check out the ScrapMatters Blog for details on the entire train.

iNSD Grab Bag at ScrapMatters

2011-05-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

In celebration for iNSD, Down This Road Designs has put together this Grab Bag filled with some beautiful spring colors and doodled fun things for you. The above preview is a little peek at all the fabulous things you will get in the Grab Bag.

You'll find the full kit Simple Comforts, a beautiful spring kit full of flowers and natural elements. The Simple Comforts cluster pack with 5 clusters to dress up you scrapbook layouts. Simple Comforts alpha sets, upper and lower case a-z. Road Maps Vol.1 template pack. And Everyday Doodles full of really fun ways to emphasize your journaling and make your pages really fun.

In this Grab Bag you will get the following:
Simple Comforts kit
Simple Comforts alphas - upper and lower case a-z
Simple Comforts clusters
Road Maps Vol. 1 (PNG, TIFF, and PSD formats)
Everyday Doodles

Some amazing inspiration from my Creative Team and the ScrapMatters Creative Team:

Festivities going on for iNSD at ScrapMatters this weekend!

2011-05-05T05:55:00.000-07:00

Lots of things lined up for the iNSD celebration at ScrapMatters this weekend!!

Come join in all the fun.

Stay tuned for a sneak peek of my Grab Bag that will come out tomorrow too!!

New May Mix-a-kit at ScrapMatters!!

2011-05-01T13:03:00.000-07:00

It's the first of the month, which means your ScrapMatters designers have a new palette full of Mix-a-kit wonderfulness for you!
This month's palette is brought to you by Christina of Whimpchompers Creations. An ode to the lovely combination of gray and yellow; from formal, to modern or quirky, our designers have everything you need to make the perfect layout.
Mix-a-kit pieces are on sale 20% off for the first week, so these pieces will be on sale through Saturday....
Here are the pieces I put together for this months Mix-a-kit:

Be sure to check out all the Mix-a-kit items at ScrapMatters this month.

New Creative Team Guests for May-July!!!

2011-04-30T08:13:00.000-07:00

Jackie of Jacabean Designs and I had a Creative Team call to add some Guests to your team. We had a really great response--we are so happy everyone applied. Unfortunately we could not give everyone a guest spot on the team but, we hope to have another call so apply again!!

Help me welcome our new Guests!!!! We also extended a full time spot to Laura and Larissa!!! Welcome to the team ladies!!

Oooh, and did you notice the kit used on that beautiful announcement??? Well, it's a sneak peek of what you'll get in the May Brownie Addicts! Hurry! Today is the last day to get it for only $7! Tomorrow being May 1, the price goes up to $10. You can find it HERE.

My Sidewalk Art new at ScrapMatters

2011-04-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

I have a new kit at ScrapMatters today!!! My Sidewalk Art was inspired by the bright colors in a bucket of sidewalk chalk and the drawings my daughter created on our driveway sidewalk. This kit is so fun and the perfect kit to showcase your child's artwork in a scrapbook page. You can pick up My Sidewalk Art this weekend at ScrapMatters for 20% off.

I also have an alpha that is fashioned after scribbled chalk in the colors of the rainbow. You can pick it up at ScrapMatters this week end for 20% off.

6 Week getting healthy Challenge

2011-04-11T07:31:00.000-07:00

Do you remember a little over 6 weeks ago I mentioned I was going to join Rhonna Ferrar for a 6 Week challenge to get healthy. Well, I do not know how many times I fell off that wagon and tried getting back on again. The eating habits killed me. I am just horrible!!

I am really proud to say that I have completed 6 weeks of the Couch to 5 K program. Now I have lost zero weight or inches...it is bound to happen right?!! That is what I keep telling myself. Despite that I can proudly say I can run for 25 minutes straight!!! That is a big deal for me. I can run....it just seems in the past that between the first 5 minutes through 10 minutes I would get this feeling that I just could not continue and give up. Now, I can run for 25 minutes straight but, this does not mean it is pretty!!! There is lots of sweat, anguish, and fear of killing over dead going on still in that first 10 minutes. After that though--it feels much less uncomfortable.

I am going to the gym right after this post and starting my week 7 on the Couch to 5K and I am just rather proud of that!!! Just wanted to share.:)

ScrapMatters Opening!!!

2011-04-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Most of you may know that I was one of the finalist in the ScrapMatters Design Star Contest.

I am so excited to be opening a store at ScrapMatters today!!! I am busy creating things to add to my store there so watch for some great things to come!!

Today I have Blast Off new in my ScrapMatters store along with an add on to compliment the Blast Off kit that was given away during the contest.

You can find Blast Off Kit HERE.

And the Blast Off Add On

You can find Blast Off Add On HERE.

They will both be on sale for Opening Weekend at 20% OFF!!!

Check out some amazing inspiration from my CT and the ScrapMatters CT!!!

I will still be selling and Brownie Scraps too and be sure to check out a great sale I am having starting Tuesday at my Brownie Scraps store only!!!

Believe in Miracles

2011-04-02T05:21:00.000-07:00

Last month I participated in a charity kit called Believe in Miracles for Heather Manning a designer who lost her home in a fire.

In the digital scrapbooking community there are a lot of truly inspiring designers. Designers that not only create beautiful products, but also are encouraging of others that want to learn more and do more. One of those designers is Heather Manning. Heather has been a great supporter and friend to an amazing amount of people in the community. When we heard that Heather and her family had been struck by a tragic fire a large group of designers gathered together to create a gorgeous collaboration kit, Believe in Miracles, for her. All proceeds from the kit will go directly to Heather and her family. Please take a moment to look over this gorgeous collection and stay tuned for matching hybrid items and quick pages.

SimplyUT.com feature

2011-03-28T08:22:00.000-07:00

SimplyUT.com is a great blog that features Utah companies like mine!!!
If you have not ever had a chance to visit their site you might want to.

What will you find on Simply Utah:
• Simply Utah provides a directory for creative online businesses. You will get lost for hours on end searching through all of the amazing companies within our directories. We also have a growing blogroll that has numerous popular blogs from bloggers here in Utah.
• Each week we feature a few new companies and their product/service of choice. We provide unique details about the featured company and they also offer a product/service at a discount for the day.
• Every Thursday a company within Simply Utah’s directory sponsors a giveaway. This is a great way for companies to receive exposure throughout the week and for our viewers to learn more about these great Utah businesses.
• Each week we also feature one of our favorite blogs. We love sharing great sites with those that follow Simply Utah. There are amazing food, craft, and lifestyle blogs, and each week you will find a new blog that you can add to your “favorites list”.
• We have an EVENTS calendar that will keep you up to date with the latest boutiques and craft shows around the state of Utah. We feel that it’s important to share local boutiques and events with our viewers. This helps to promote those businesses within our directory that are showcasing their products at these events.

Down This Road Designs is being featured today and if you visit their site you will find a coupon to my store at Brownie Scraps!!! Stop on by and check out all the great companies that SimplyUT features today!!

Layout Spotlight

2011-03-23T01:00:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to share a layout from msbrad!!! Michelle did an amazing job on her layout using my Design Star round 4 entry Blast Off!!!

I love her journaling, the photo, the blending of the elements to make a cosmic scene in the background, the different papers and basically the overall composition of this layout!!! I thought it needed to be spotlighted.

It is fabulous right?!!! You can go and find her layout with credits and leave her a comment here.

If you would like to download Blast Off you can find it here.

If you have a layout you have created with one of my kits or templates I would love to see it!!!! You can email me at downthisroaddesigns(at)q(dot)com. You could even get a coupon to my store for sharing a layout and having it spotlighted on my blog.

Design Star Round 4

2011-03-21T08:06:00.000-07:00

Well, today is the final round of the Design Star Contest!!! I am really excited about this kit and think it turned out great!!

You can go to ScrapMatters and download the kit HERE.

As part of the assignment this week we needed to scrap at least one layout from our round 2/3 entry and at least one layout from our round 4 entry. Here are mine:

I just could not narrow it down to 1 of each. LOL!!

I appreciate all the support and super kind comments while in the contest!!! It means so much to me that people enjoy and like my designs!!!

Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week

2011-03-14T19:02:00.000-07:00

I had posted about the MS Movement Collab and my fundraiser for the cause earlier today. Well, there is more!!
All this week, Jackie will be donating 100% of her proceeds to Mandy's BikeMS. Yep, 100%!!! I'm sure there is a kit in her store that catches your eye. There's a LOT of variety in there. Short on cash? There are some $2 minis too.

MS Movement Collab and Fundraiser

2011-03-14T08:09:00.000-07:00

Today starts MS Awareness week. And I am SO EXCITED.

For the last few weeks, bunches of digital scrapbook designers have been working on a really amazing thing together –these incredible women got together and created something beautiful for Multiple Sclerosis. A BIG Thanks to Mandy Hornbuckle for putting it all together!!

Almost 200 papers. More than 400 elements. And 3 alphas on top of that. I’m blown away. Is is so big and so wonderful!!

(And! There are a set of about 50 quick pages/templates being uploaded and coming soon to be sold separately starting tomorrow!!)

And best of all? 100% of the sales of this go to Mandy Hornbuckles BikeMS ride, which is all MS Society.

You can buy this kit at http://www.MSDigiKit.com.

Here are the designers who contributed and and who I would therefore kiss if I met them. If they were into that kind of thing:
AKay Designs
Benthai Creations
Black Rose Digitals
Creations by Rachael
Designs by Angel
Down This Road Designs
Hornbuckle Designs
Jacabean Designs
Jen C Designs
JennCk Designs
Julie Marie Designs
JusMe Digital
Kimeric Kreations
Mama Llama Designs
Mommyish
Ocean Wide Designs
One of a Kind Design Studio
Photocowgirl
Polka Dot Chicks
Pretty in Green
Psychozoe
Rhonda Sunflower Designs
Rumki Designs
Scrapping All The Way
Scrappy Cocoa
Scrapvine
Shmooangel Designs
Starving Artist Designs
Sus Designs
Tracy King
Unforgettable Moments
Z Pink Boudoir Designs

Fabulous Right?!!!
Help by purchasing the collab and by spreading the word about this wonderful fundraiser.

That is not all folks!!!
I will be donating 100% of my sales from March 14-21 to the Mandy's BikeMS Ride also!!! Be sure to check out my store and help this cause!!

You can find my store HERE.

Design Star Contest Round 3 Merriment

2011-03-07T15:51:00.000-08:00

I have been so worked up over this contest!! It is so hard to put myself out there!! It is a good thing though.

This round will be an elimination round and I am so nervous!! There is a ton of talent in this contest!! I am learning and pushing myself to be a better designer and I am so happy to have the opportunity!! Of course, I would love to continue on in the contest!! We will just have to see what the judges say. Right?!! Today I posted my Round 3 submission! And I loved how it turned out!! It matches the Round 2 papers so if you have not had a chance to grab those you can find them HERE.

Here are the elements pack.

You can go to ScrapMatters HERE and download these elements for free!!

Here is the entire kit preview:

Do you love it!!! Go leave me some comments at ScrapMatters or you can post a comment here. I would love to hear what you think. Thanks for all of your support!!!!!

Design Star Round 2

2011-03-01T18:58:00.000-08:00

As I had mentioned before I made it to round 2 of the ScrapMatters Design Star Contest!!! Can I get a Woot Woot?!!! Our instructions for this round: Create 8 papers with our own color selctions. 5 patterned and 3 solid. So, I got to work and I will admit I struggled a little bit. I was so nervous!!! I finally decided on a theme and some colors and I love what I came up with.

You will be able to download these papers by going to the ScrapMatters Gallery HERE. You will also find the paper packs of the other Round 2 Designers as well. They all did such an amazing job and I am in awe of the talent!!! There are also some others who are playing along and they are doing a wonderful job too. So lots of fun stuff to gather up there.

Just to let you know the elements to coordinate with these papers will be our next assignment so stay tuned for that next week.

Design Star contest

2011-02-24T08:55:00.000-08:00

I entered the Design Star Contest at ScrapMatters. I had participated in this same contest 2 years ago but, I did not make it past the first round. Do you remember this little beauty?

This item is no longer available for sale or freebie.

I have kept on with designing and have learned so much along my journey. I entered this time to prove to myself that I had indeed grown as a designer. Here is the submission I created for this time around.

During the contest I am offering this mini as a Freebie!! You can go to the ScrapMatters Gallery to pick it up along with many other submissions.

I am very thrilled to announce that I am moving on to round 2. There was so much talent in round 1 that I was really nervous!!! I mean the gallery is full of really amazing creations.

Well, I guess I can say that I proved to myself that I have learned a thing or 2 and have grown as a designer. LOL!!! I learn something new everyday about designing and I just love it. Wish me luck as I continue on in the contest.

A great way to support a Charity!

2010-05-17T19:49:00.000-07:00

A number of designers have come together to create a kit to raise money for ALS. (also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease). Included in this kit you will find a wide variety of elements along with a full alpha and template.
You can pick them up separately or as a bundle. With the bundle you will get a bonus word art pack!!
Soft Kit Contributors:
ChristinaP
Dolbydawgs
Down This Road Designs
JennCK
Scrappin Daisies
In a Digital Daze Designs
And here's a look at the kit:

Bold Kit Contributors:
Arizona Sweetheart Scraps
Hildur's Creations
Jacabean Designs
Marni Designs
Marti Scraps
Scrappin Dasies
JennCK
Here's a look at the bold kit:

And find the bundle here:

So run over to Brownie Scraps (images are linked) to grab a great kit and also support a great cause.
Happy Scrapping,
Angie

ACDSee Organizing Tutorial

2010-04-26T17:46:00.000-07:00

For those that attended the Digital Scrapbook Memories Retreat I am posting the tutorial that went along with the class I taught at the retreat. I hope that this tutorial will help with any questions you have about ACDSee. And if you have questions please feel free to email them to me at downthisroaddesigns@q.com.

Acdsee Tutorial

Most of the information in this tutorial was information I found at Digiscrapinfo.com. It is a great site to find information about using ACDSee for Digital Scrapbooking. They have lots of tips and tricks and even video tutorials and category styles. Be sure to check it out.

Happy Scrapping,
Angie

New Newsletter

2010-04-12T12:29:00.000-07:00

I have decided to go with a different Newsletter software. If you would like to subscribe to my newsletter go to Newsletter in my blog sidebar to subscribe. Subscribers get exclusive information about Sales, giveaways and coupons. If you are already subscribed and would like to continue to receive my newsletter please resubscribe via the sidebar.

Thanks
Happy Scrapping,
Angie

Follow me on Facebook and Twitter to get exclusive specials!!!

2010-03-19T06:21:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Happy Friday!!! Did you know I have a Facebook Fan Page? I am also on Twitter! I hand out exclusive specials, coupons, and Random Acts of Kindness on these social media sites. You just may want to become a fan and follow along. You never know when I will get the urge to hand out these goodies. And you don't want to miss out!!!

Twitter

Facebook

We will see you there!

Happy Scrapping,
Angie

Quick Pages make it easy to get started Digital Scrapbooking

2010-02-23T07:57:00.000-08:00

Are you interested in Digital Scrapbooking but, just do not know where to start? Quick pages are so easy and really fun. All of the page design is done for you. All you have to do is plug in your pictures and you have an amazing layout all done in minutes. I have created this tutorial to help you along the way.
QP Tutorial
Happy Scrapping,
Angie

Get to know your Digital Scrapbooking program

2010-01-23T21:31:00.001-08:00

There are many programs out there that people use to digital scrapbook. I have memory mixer but, I never use it. I have gotten comfortable with Photoshop and Photoshop Elements so that is what I use. I hope that any newbies out there will just try to mess around in Photoshop. You will be amazed at the things you can do with it. From fixing photos to creating fun craft projects. You will wonder how you ever got by without it (or a similar graphics program). So I thought today that I would post a tutorial that I made for Photoshop Elements. I usually scrap with Photoshop Elements 6--I just like the set up and the ease of the program. So, on with the tutorial.

Photoshop Elements Getting Started Tutorial

Now there are many ways of doing things and opening files into Photoshop. These are just a few that I use. So play around and get creative.
Happy Scrapping,
Angie

Down This Road Designs by Angie I.

Better than .... Cake!

Big News for Down This Road Designs

Sneak Peek

New Releases at ScrapMatters

January Stack Exchange at ScrapMatters

Manic Monday

Guest Creative Team Call

January Mix-a-kit

New January Mix-a-kit Packs

Day 12

Day 11

Day 10

Day 9

Manic Monday

Day 8

Day 7 freebie

Day 6

Day 5

New Release Dear Santa Collab

Day 4

Day 3

Sneak Peek for 12/16

Day 2 of 12 days of Christmas from Down This Road Designs

12 Days of Christmas

Manic Monday 12/12/11

Revamped Snowy Tales

Manic Monday!!!

Grab Bag Reveal!!

Ginger Sweet New Release

December Daily Download at ScrapMatters

ScrapMatters December Mix-a-kit

December fun!!

Sneak Peek and giveaway

Cyber Monday SALE!!!

New Release and Black Friday Sale!!!

Manic Monday

DSD is here!!!!

DSD is fast approaching!!

November Mix-a-kit

New Release Fall Title Starters

Manic Monday

Fall Festival

Sneak Peek and Giveaway

Manic Monday

Freebie!

Octopus Fun!

October Mix-a-kit

Gallery Spotlight

Manic Monday Road Maps Vol. 1

Manic Monday Simple Comforts

Brown Eyed Girl Collab at ScrapMatters

Happy "Fight Procrastination Day!"

September Mix-a-kit

Manic Monday!!

Look for Rainbows new in my ScrapMatters Shop

Back to school and Sneak Peek

Back To School

Who wants donut cake?

Manic Monday!!

First Flight and Simple Metal Alpha New in my shop

Sneak Peek and a giveaway **CLOSED**

ScrapMatters Birthday Bash Blog Train

ScrapMatters is turning 4!!

School Days

Sneak Peek of my August Mix-a-kit collection!!

My Memories Suite Software Giveaway!! **Closed**

Best Wishes new in my shop along with some CU and a freebie

Sneak Peek and a giveaway **Closed**

Last Chance for Christmas in July and CT layouts

Everyday Magic Challenge this month

Christmas in July and Freebies

Christmas in July is in full swing!!

Sneak Peek 7/15 release and a chance to win!!

Chirstmas in July at ScrapMatters

4th of July Hybrid Craft

July Mix-a-kit at ScrapMatters

Blog make over

Summer Skies and Brass Alpha new at ScrapMatters

June Mix-a-kit at ScrapMatters

Sneak Peek and a giveaway CLOSED

My Memories Suite Software Giveaway!! Closed

Sneak Peek and a giveaway Closed